Great Western Coffee Shop

Network Rail's announcements today included the proposal that their work on the reopening of the passenger line between Parson Street and a new station at Portishead should include provision for electrification of the line.

However, there are several locations where further engineering work will be needed in order to achieve this.

A Network Rail spokesman said, "Obviously we want to reinstate the line in the most efficient way - but we have identified several issues with the height requirements for new overhead line equipment along the route. For example, the road overbridge at South Liberty Lane would have to be removed, which will cause some issues for road traffic using the industrial estate there. However, the building of the south Bristol link road should resolve that in due course."

The installation of overhead line equipment will be facilitated by use of the existing M5 overhead structures at Lodway, which could be adapted to include the necessary supports.

A Highways Agency spokesperson said, "While we accept the need for transport improvements for commuters in the Bristol area, we are concerned at these additional loads being proposed for our already struggling infrastructure over the River Avon.

"We therefore suggest that a full public enquiry is now set up, to report within a reasonably short time from today's date."

Certainly a very interesting idea if it is indead true.

I am however taking it with a pinch of salt due to todays date

 ;D

I particularly like the proposal in said document to solve the issue of a level crossing just before a terminal station at Portishead by looping round on a new formation to the site of the former Portishead South station and carrying on from there along the old formation to Walton-in-Gordano and Clevedon.

With thanks to those who have posted appreciative comments on my latest effort above, as well as the member who sent me a PM "Brilliant effort, had me fooled until 'todays date'. Then 'clunk clunk' as the penny dropped!", I have now renamed and moved this topic here, where it rightfully belongs.

Chris from Nailsea.  ;) :D ;D

I agree a very good effort Chris. If I hadnt known the date I probably would have been caught out.